Available Dogs
Thinking About Adopting a Dog?
Here are some questions to ask:
What age(s) are the family members in your household?
Children Under the Age of Seven
While raising a child and a puppy/dog together can be a wonderful experience for the child and the family, there are a few things to consider before deciding to adopt an adult dog, puppy, or a small dog into your family.
Puppies have very sharp ‘milk teeth’ and toenails that can scratch and unintentionally cause injury. Toy dogs are fine-boned and can be injured easily and they can perhaps be more easily startled, or reactive than a bigger dog may be.
It is also important to keep in mind that puppies and some adult dogs are still learning how to properly interact with all people, children included. Children can run, and toddle making it hard for puppies and dogs to connect that a small person is not to be played with like another puppy.
Keep in mind that if you are adopting any dog with a small child, they should always be supervised when with the dog, for the safety of the child and the dog.
If you have any questions regarding any of our available dogs, please give us a call at 970-879-7247.
Elderly
Adopting a dog later in life can be a great joy as there is more time to spend with the dog and you can have more freedom than you may have earlier in life. It is important to carefully consider the proper dog for your lifestyle, keeping in mind the activity level, and medical or behavioral needs of a particular dog. It can be more beneficial to choose a dog based on personality rather than based on age or breed, as each dog is an individual.
If you have any questions regarding any of our available dogs, please give us a call at 970-879-7247.
Who will be the primary caretaker of the dog?
The whole family should be involved in choosing the new dog, but an adult needs to be the one who makes sure the right dog for the family is chosen and that the dog is properly cared for. Involving children in the care is a great opportunity for them to learn responsibility, but they can not be expected to do everything. Also, remember the kids will grow up and leave, but the dog will still be with you.
How much can you spend?
Money
There are many other costs, besides the adoption cost, associated with adopting a dog. Annual vaccinations and good, quality food are necessities. Training, chew toys, crate, outerwear, and other supplies may also be needed depending on the dog you choose. Also, don’t forget about the veterinary emergencies. These can cost thousands of dollars. Can you afford the broken leg, the swallowed battery, or the diagnosis of cancer?
Time and Energy
Various breeds and ages of dog make different demands on our precious spare time. In general, the sporting, herding, and terrier breeds need more time in training and daily exercise than guardian, companion, or toy breeds. A puppy or adolescent will need more exercise and training. The first year with any new dog regardless of age or breed type will put more demands on the owner than any other time; this is when you are setting up structure and house routines which will last for the lifetime of your dog.
Our adoptions are Satisfaction Guaranteed! While there is a person for every animal, we know that not every animal is for every person. If you adopt an animal from RCHS and discover that you are not compatible due to behavior concerns or medical issues, you may return your pet within 60 days and your adoption fee will be refunded.
Dogs available for adoption
